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At least 37 people were injured after a 5.9-magnitude earthquake struck the Tokyo area early Sunday, Aug. 23.
The earthquake hit around 2 a.m. local time, with its epicenter in southern Ibaraki prefecture, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency. Authorities did not issue a tsunami warning following the quake.
The U.S. Geological Survey recorded the earthquake at magnitude 5.8 and placed its depth at about 61 kilometers, or roughly 38 miles.
Japan Earthquake Injures 37 People
Officials confirmed injuries across five prefectures following the Japan earthquake. Tokyo reported the highest number, with 15 people injured.
Saitama recorded nine injuries, while eight people were hurt in Kanagawa. Four injuries were reported in Chiba, and one person was injured in Ibaraki.
Many of the injuries happened when residents fell or struck furniture after the earthquake startled them while they were sleeping.
An elderly woman in her 80s suffered a serious hip injury after falling from her bed in Yokohama, according to The Japan News.
The earthquake also caused flooding on a road in Tokyo’s Koto Ward, according to images from the scene.
Tokyo Earthquake Prompts Government Response
Japanese officials moved quickly to assess the earthquake’s impact.
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said there were initially no reports of extensive damage to homes. She also said authorities were continuing to gather information about the situation.
The Japanese government established a task force to assess potential damage and coordinate its response.
Officials also urged residents to remain alert because another earthquake of similar strength could occur.
The Japan Meteorological Agency continues to monitor the situation and provide updates as authorities assess the aftermath.
No Tsunami Threat Reported
Despite the strength of the Japan earthquake, authorities did not issue a tsunami warning.
The quake registered a lower 5 on Japan’s seismic intensity scale of 7 in Tokyo and several surrounding prefectures, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency.
Japan sits along the Pacific Ring of Fire, making earthquakes a regular occurrence across the country. The nation’s buildings, infrastructure and emergency systems are designed to withstand many seismic events, although stronger earthquakes can still cause significant damage.
Authorities are continuing to assess the full effects of Sunday’s earthquake.
For residents in affected areas, officials have urged caution and preparedness as aftershocks remain possible.
Source: Associated Press, Japan Meteorological Agency, U.S. Geological Survey and The Japan News.
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